AN ambitious scheme to light up Bewdley Bridge has been backed in principle by town councillors.

Richard and Robert Heath, of Stourbridge-based Light Ideas, approached the councillors with the idea for the project.

The brothers, who have lived in the town for 32 years, have offered to design and set up the lighting at no cost.

The offer also includes technical support during installation and ongoing maintenance work.

During Monday's town council meeting, the councillors voted unanimously to back the scheme and form a small working partnership with the pair to move the project forward.

Speaking at the meeting, Health Concern councillor, Liz Davies, said: "Bewdley people want the bridge to have lighting. We have had a lovely suggestion. We should go for it and grab the opportunity while we have got it.

"We should accept this and form that small working partnership and push it hard."

When the scheme is completed, the lights will be placed underneath the arches of the bridge, creating a reflection in the river.

Bewdley Mayor, Anne Mace, said: "I think the lighting will enhance Bewdley. It will make the most of the bridge, which is one of the town's most striking features."

She added: "The bridge is beautiful and I hope the scheme will encourage people to come to the town to see it. Everybody I have spoken to has said go for it'."

In a joint statement, the brothers, who have designed lighting for London's Victoria and Albert Museum, said: "We are active members of the community, supporting local charity events and businesses and would very much like to use our expertise and products to the benefit of our town.

"The lighting effect we propose will be subtle, enhancing the bridge's features."